Concerns Raised Over ICE's Recent Detention Operations in Maine

Sat Jan 24 2026 18:17:07 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Recent immigration enforcement actions in Maine have raised alarms as officials report detaining individuals labeled as 'dangerous criminals,' but court records reveal a more complex narrative.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) claims to have detained over 100 individuals in Maine as part of 'Operation Catch of the Day,' targeting what it identifies as the 'worst of the worst' criminals. However, court records reveal that many detainees have unresolved immigration cases or minor infractions, leading to criticism from local officials and immigration attorneys regarding the overreach of these operations. Concerns about the distinction between arrests and convictions have been voiced, especially when individuals without criminal records are swept up in the crackdown.

PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has spotlighted its recent detention of individuals labeled as some of Maine’s most dangerous criminals during the recent operations. However, court documents suggest a much more multifaceted situation.

According to federal officials, more than 100 people have been detained statewide in an effort dubbed “Operation Catch of the Day,” referencing Maine’s fishing industry. ICE issued a statement declaring its goal of capturing the “worst of the worst,” which includes “child abusers and hostage takers.”

Nonetheless, court records indicate that while some detainees may have serious felony backgrounds, others are caught up in the enforcement sweep for having unresolved immigration proceedings or charges without convictions.

Concerns about the implications of such actions were raised by immigration lawyers and local officials, reflecting similar issues witnessed in previous ICE operations in other cities, where many who were targeted had no criminal records. Maine officials highlight that ICE’s narrative of detaining the ‘worst of the worst’ does not align with the actual backgrounds of many of those arrested.

One noteworthy case cited by ICE is that of Dominic Ali, a Sudanese native with a conviction history involving severe offenses such as false imprisonment and assault. However, other detainees, including individuals like Elmara Correia and Dany Lopez-Cortez, have faced less severe charges that raise questions about the classification of their cases as indicative of serious criminality.

Mayor Mark Dion also noted the need for clarity on the distinction between arrests and convictions to understand the implications of ICE’s actions. He has urged investigators to ensure a fair evaluation of each individual's circumstances rather than simply attributing criminality based on past arrests.

Legal actions are being pursued to challenge the transfers of detainees, emphasizing that many are apprehended while going about their daily lives and demonstrating a lack of prior criminal records. As ICE continues to enforce its operations in Maine, the discourse around immigrant rights, legal protections, and the responsibilities of enforcement agencies grows increasingly critical.